Heat flows from hot to cold bodies from "summary" of Thermodynamics and an Introduction to Thermostatistics by Herbert B. Callen
In the study of thermodynamics, a fundamental principle is that heat naturally flows from hot bodies to cold bodies. This principle is rooted in the second law of thermodynamics, which governs the direction of heat transfer between systems. When two bodies are in thermal contact, the hotter body will transfer heat to the colder body until they reach thermal equilibrium, where there is no further net heat transfer between them. The direction of heat flow is a consequence of the fact that heat is a form of energy that tends to spread out and reach a state of equilibrium. Hot bodies have a greater amount of thermal energy than cold bodies, and energy tends to flow from regions of higher energy to regions of lower energy. This process is governed by the principle of entropy, which quantifies the degree of disorder or randomness in a system. In a system where heat is allowed to flow freely, the overall entropy of the system tends to increase over time. This increase in entropy is a measure of the dispersal of energy throughout the system, as heat flows from hot to cold bodies and the system moves towards a state of equilibrium. The concept of heat flow from hot to cold bodies is a manifestation of the natural tendency of systems to evolve towards a state of maximum entropy. By understanding the principles of thermodynamics and heat transfer, we can predict the direction of heat flow in various systems and design efficient processes for energy transfer. The concept of heat flowing from hot to cold bodies is a fundamental aspect of thermodynamics that underlies many natural phenomena and technological applications. It provides insights into the behavior of systems and helps us make informed decisions in the design and operation of energy systems.
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